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| Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Pic Finlay McWalter. |
VisitScotland, Scotland’s national tourism organisation, has welcomed the new route which will run from 1st June 2014-1st September 2014, from Monday-Thursday each week.
While Prestwick might be best-known for its international airport, there is much more for tourists to discover in the surrounding areas. Prestwick is a 45-minute train journey from Glasgow city centre, where the Commonwealth Games will be held from 23rd July-3rd August 2014. As well as the opportunity to see some of the world's top sporting talent in action, the Games also offers visitors the opportunity to extend their trip to see what Scotland has to offer.
The host city, Glasgow, in 2012 was named the number one UK destination ‘on the rise’ by the world's largest travel site, TripAdvisor. The city was also named one of the top destinations in the UK, in the 2013 Travellers’ Choice Destinations Awards. With an eclectic mix of trendy hotels, museums and galleries, restaurants, as well as arguably the best shopping experience in the UK outside of London’s West End, there has never been a better time to visit Glasgow.
For those who like to relax and unwind, there is an array of city parks in Glasgow to enjoy a quiet stroll including; Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Victoria Park and Glasgow Green Park and Gardens. Lovers of golf might be interested in visiting the Old Prestwick Golf Course, which was the first course to host the British Golf Open Championships in 1860. There are also two other golf courses located in Prestwick.
Star gazers will love the Galloway Dark Sky Park, which is located just a short drive from Prestwick. The Dark Sky Park is an area where there is virtually no light pollution allowing visitors to enjoy the spectacular view of the thousands of stars at night.
Also, in nearby Dumfries and Galloway, nature lovers can enjoy a visit to the many nature reserves, such as the Cairnsmore Fleet National Nature Reserve or the Grey Mare’s Tail, which are home to a huge variety of animals and birds. There are lots of hides and viewing spots for visitors to see osprey, deer, squirrels and wild geese to name but a few.
For visitors planning a summer trip, the town of Ayr, which borders Prestwick, boasts a long sandy beach, perfect for a paddle or long, relaxing walk. Visitors to Ayr might also be interested in discovering more about Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard, and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum located in the town is another must-visit during a trip to the town.
Visit www.visitscotland.com for more information on visiting Prestwick, Glasgow and the surrounding areas.
Bookings for the new route can be made through www.ryanair.com.
